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The Federal Rehoboth, Rehoboth Beach, DE

The Federal Rehoboth

4.8
4.8
478 Reviews
$30 and under
Unspecified

Make a booking

2 people
7:00 pm
Booked 2 times today
Experiences are available.
  • Neighbourhood gem
  • Good for special occasions
  • Charming
What started as a food truck concept in 2019 then became a beachside bistro in 2021. The Federal, located just a short block from the famed Rehoboth Beach boardwalk has become a full-service, beach casual, fine-dining bistro. The demure restaurant now hosts the two concepts in one space - you can enjoy fritters before dinner, for a happy hour snack, or go for a boardwalk stroll. Federal Fritter menu features a variety of crisp, poppable & snackable fritters, while The Federal menu expands on a way of eating that best defines Todd & Ellen's culinary style, the menu reads like a postcard from the Mid-Atlantic. Chef Gray pays careful attention to the seasons, honoring what the Delmarva region harvests.

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    Unspecified
  • Hours of Operation
    Tue–Sat 17:00–21:00
  • Phone number
    (302) 727-5609
  • Website
    https://www.thefederalrehoboth.com/
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Cash not accepted, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive Chef
    Chef Todd Gray
  • Catering
    From a casual dinner drop-off to full service catering is offered
  • Private party facilities
    Please contact us for private events for groups of 7 - 35 people
  • Location
    62a Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
  • Area
    Rehoboth Beach
  • Cross Street
    2nd Ave
  • Parking details
    None
  • Public transit
    Local bus service stops out of the front of restaurant
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeaway, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Vine & Dine Wednesday

    USD 45.00 per person

    6 Nov 2024 - 21 May 2025
    Vine & Dine: Savor the Season Every Wednesday Join us for Vine & Dine, our mid-week culinary experience that brings the best seasonal and regional ingredients to your table. Each Wednesday, Chef Todd Gray will create a unique four-course dining experience that celebrates the flavors of the off-season at the beach. 4-course $45 | optional wine pairing $20 Elevate your evening with our optional wine pairings to enhance each dish. Whether you're a wine lover or simply looking for a special dining experience, Vine & Dine is your perfect mid-week escape. Reserve your spot now and indulge in the ultimate culinary journey!
    Vine & Dine Wednesday photo

  • Spirit Dinner Series 2024-2025

    USD 95.00 per person

    18 Oct 2024 - 23 May 2025
    Our Fourth Annual Spirit Dinner Season is Back for 2024-2025! Join us for our fourth season of spirited culinary partnerships. The Federal Spirit Dinners are the perfect opportunity to experience and learn about our featured spirit each month. Indulge in a special four-course menu crafted by award-winning Chef Todd Gray, paired with exquisite cocktails created by Ellen Kassoff from our exceptional roster of spirits. (October 18, November 15, December 6, December 13, January 17, February 7, March 14, April 11, May 23, June 6) $95.00 per person plus gratuity
    Spirit Dinner Series 2024-2025 photo

Menu

Starters

  • Smoked Kabocha Squash SoupUSD 18.00

    Maryland lump crab meat, truffle butter, nori chips

    • Baked Lower Chesapeake Bay OystersUSD 18.00

      spinach, sweet scallop, gruyere cheese

      • Blood Orange & Red Oak Leaf SaladUSD 16.00

        roasted red & golden beets, pickled fennel, watermelon radish, blood orange vinaigrette (pb) (gf)

        • Artisanal Cheese Board USD 18.00

          purple haze goat, boxcar cottonbell, barely buzzed cow cheese, fig jam, candied walnuts, focaccia crostini

          • Creamy Heirloom N.C. Grits with Lamb Shank Ragout USD 16.00

            red wine tomato sauce, baby carrots, parmesan reggiano

            • Tempura of Sweet Tiger ShrimpUSD 17.00

              arugula salad, pickled fennel, saffron aioli

              • Equinox Truffled Mac & CheeseUSD 16.00

                elbow macaroni, melted Gruyere & panko breadcrumb (veg)

                Mains

                • Jersey Sweet Potato & Cauliflower CurryUSD 29.00

                  lime scented basmati, Rays sweet peppers, pomegranate seed (pb, gf))

                  • Baked Cannelloni of Spinach & Ricotta USD 31.00

                    oyster mushrooms, caramelized onion, parmesan reggiano (veg)

                    • Pan Seared Ocean City Sea Scallops USD 38.00

                      jasmine rice, local shrimp gumbo, stewed okra

                      • Citrus Glazed Golden Tile FishUSD 39.00

                        Sweet potato purée, black-eyed peas, bacon-braised collard greens.

                        • House Made Ricotta GnocchiUSD 42.00

                          local scallops, lump crab, gulf shrimp, baby spinach, tomato saffron cream

                          • Grilled Semi Boneless Manchester Farm QuailUSD 37.00

                            smoked andouille sausage, toasted farro, baby spinach, winter vegetable mirepoix,

                            • Grilled Black Angus Beef Hanger SteakUSD 38.00

                              horseradish potatoes, broccoli rabe, chimichurri sauce (gf)

                              Dessert

                              • Warm Hazelnut Chocolate BomboloniUSD 11.00

                                dusted with cinnamon sugar, cappuccino gelato

                                • Classic New York CheesecakeUSD 11.00

                                  Graham cracker crust, Hawaiian pineapple compote

                                  • Caramel Machiato Petite GateauxUSD 11.00

                                    mocha anglaise, candied citrus

                                    • Sicilian Style Chocolate Laced CannoliUSD 11.00

                                      Italian ricotta, strawberry coulis, candied orange

                                      • Warm Granny Smith Apple CrispUSD 11.00

                                        oat streusel, vanilla bean gelato

                                        • Tiramisu Layer CakeUSD 11.00

                                          caramel sauce, house-made strawberry ice cream, fresh berries

                                          • Apple Pie FrittersUSD 11.00

                                            Granny Smith apple cake, cinnamon & sugar (pb)

                                            The Side DIsh

                                            • Sautee of Wild Mushrooms & Baby Spinach USD 9.00

                                              white wine, garlic, caramelized onions

                                              • Tatiana's Grilled Focaccia for 2USD 8.00

                                                basil pesto, parmesan reggiano

                                                • Warm Buttermilk Cornbread for 2USD 8.00

                                                  rosemary honey butter & smoked sea salt

                                                  Last updated: 4 February 2025

                                                  What 478 people are saying

                                                  Overall ratings and reviews

                                                  Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

                                                  4.8
                                                  4.8 based on recent ratings
                                                  • 4.9Food
                                                  • 4.8Service
                                                  • 4.7Ambience
                                                  • 4.6Value

                                                  Noise • Moderate

                                                  Loved For

                                                  • Baltimore / Maryland

                                                    Best Food

                                                  • Ocean City / Delaware Shore

                                                    Best Overall

                                                  • Ocean City / Delaware Shore

                                                    Best Food

                                                  • Ocean City / Delaware Shore

                                                    Best Service

                                                  • Ocean City / Delaware Shore

                                                    Best Value

                                                  • Ocean City / Delaware Shore

                                                    Innovative

                                                  • Ocean City / Delaware Shore

                                                    Healthy

                                                  • Ocean City / Delaware Shore

                                                    Neighbourhood gem

                                                  Review summary

                                                  AI-generated from verified diner reviews
                                                  The Federal Rehoboth delights patrons with "excellent cocktails, appetizers, main courses, and desserts." Guests praise its "amazing service" and "warm, friendly atmosphere," likening it to dining in someone's home. Chef Todd Gray's innovative dishes, including "fantastic fritters," consistently impress. The intimate setting is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night out.

                                                  478 Reviews

                                                  1. corey

                                                    VIP

                                                    Washington DC

                                                    6 reviews

                                                    4.0

                                                    6 reviews

                                                    Dined 2 days ago

                                                    1. Overall 4
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 3
                                                    4. Ambience 4
                                                    The food was fantastic! Always a good spot to visit.

                                                    Is this helpful?

                                                  2. Jeffrey

                                                    VIP

                                                    Baltimore

                                                    2 reviews

                                                    5.0

                                                    2 reviews

                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 5
                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                    One of absolute favorite spots on the Delaware shore. Great food, ambience and an amazing 1960’s sound track tonight.

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                                                  3. Robert

                                                    Baltimore

                                                    20 reviews

                                                    5.0

                                                    20 reviews

                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 5
                                                    4. Ambience 4
                                                    Fantastic, creative food. Perfectly timed service.

                                                    Is this helpful?

                                                  4. Bill

                                                    Washington DC

                                                    1 review

                                                    3.0

                                                    1 review

                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                    1. Overall 3
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 2
                                                    4. Ambience 4
                                                    Great food and wine, always 5 Star. I got the winr pairing and the waitress proved she didn't understand , put glass in front of me saying the name and type no description. My wife had to ask for a new place setting and later in the meal mine wasn't replaced. Picky yes but with the prices and gratuity expected I demand good aand spot on service.

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                                                  5. Wendy

                                                    VIP

                                                    Washington DC

                                                    4 reviews

                                                    3.0

                                                    4 reviews

                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                    1. Overall 3
                                                    2. Food 3
                                                    3. Service 2
                                                    4. Ambience 3
                                                    Food is good yet this was our second time here and the service is slow, especially if you order a bar drink.

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                                                  6. Linda

                                                    VIP

                                                    New York City

                                                    13 reviews

                                                    5.0

                                                    13 reviews

                                                    Dined 4 days ago

                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 5
                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                    Very much a foodie restaurant with very engaged owners who really try to make the experience wonderful!

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                                                  7. Donna

                                                    VIP

                                                    New York City

                                                    1 review

                                                    5.0

                                                    1 review

                                                    Dined on 1 February 2025

                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 5
                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                    The cocktails, appetizers , main course & dessert were excellent. It was out first time at The Federal, certainly will not be our last. Looking forward to next time, Fantastic!

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                                                  8. James

                                                    VIP

                                                    Baltimore

                                                    127 reviews

                                                    5.0

                                                    127 reviews

                                                    Dined on 25 January 2025

                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 5
                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                    This was our 3rd time going to The Federal. 4 of us had the Tile Fish and it was outstanding. Fritter were good too. If you haven’t been, go. The food and service were great.

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                                                  9. Matthew

                                                    Philadelphia

                                                    7 reviews

                                                    5.0

                                                    7 reviews

                                                    Dined on 22 January 2025

                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 5
                                                    4. Ambience 4
                                                    The venue is somewhat unique in that you sit very close to other patrons. The food and service is very good, but the background music should be lower. The wine is nothing special, but it is reasonably priced. My hanger steak was cooked to perfection, and my wife loved the squash soup. They absolutely do not rush you you to get through your meal. We will be going back!

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                                                  10. Richard

                                                    New York City

                                                    6 reviews

                                                    5.0

                                                    6 reviews

                                                    Dined on 19 January 2025

                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                    2. Food 5
                                                    3. Service 5
                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                    Very impressed with our first visit. There for brunch will return for dinner.

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                                                  FAQs

                                                  The Federal Rehoboth offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (302) 727-5609.

                                                  The Federal Rehoboth is rated 4.8 stars by 478 OpenTable diners.

                                                  Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

                                                  Make a booking

                                                  2 people
                                                  7:00 pm
                                                  Booked 2 times today
                                                  Experiences are available.

                                                  Order delivery or takeout

                                                  Google Map for The Federal Rehoboth

                                                  62a Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

                                                  Dining areas

                                                  Additional information

                                                  • Cross Street
                                                    2nd Ave
                                                  • Area
                                                    Rehoboth Beach
                                                  • Hours of Operation
                                                    Tue–Sat 17:00–21:00
                                                  • Price
                                                    $30 and under
                                                  • Cuisines
                                                    Unspecified
                                                  • Dining style
                                                    Casual Dining
                                                  • Dress code
                                                    Casual Dress
                                                  • Parking details
                                                    None
                                                  • Public transit
                                                    Local bus service stops out of the front of restaurant
                                                  • Payment Options
                                                    AMEX, Cash not accepted, Mastercard, Visa
                                                  • Executive Chef
                                                    Chef Todd Gray
                                                  • Additional
                                                    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeaway, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine
                                                  • Website
                                                    https://www.thefederalrehoboth.com/
                                                  • Phone number
                                                    (302) 727-5609
                                                  • Catering
                                                    From a casual dinner drop-off to full service catering is offered
                                                  • Private party facilities
                                                    Please contact us for private events for groups of 7 - 35 people
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